The Department of Transportation issues DOT numbers to identify motor carriers and monitor their audits, compliance reviews, crash investigations and inspections.
Do I Need a DOT Number?
If you meet any of the following requirements, you must register for a USDOT Number:
- You’re an interstate motor carrier
AND
- You operate a motor vehicle with a GVWR of 10,001+ pounds or
- You operate a motor vehicle designed to transport 8+ passengers (including driver) for compensation or
- You operate a motor vehicle designed to transport 15+ passengers (including driver) for no compensation
- You’re transporting hazardous materials that require a placard. (This regulation applies for interstate AND intrastate carriers)
Many states also require you to get a USDOT number to operate in interstate commerce, as well. If you plan to operate as an interstate carrier, and aren’t sure if you need to get a DOT number, please contact us for guidance.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a DOT Number?
You can get a DOT Number at no cost to you when you file through Foley. Our compliance consultants will ensure that all of your paperwork is filled out and submitted correctly – as well as ensure that you have your DOT operating authority and any other permits and registrations you need to operate legally.
What Information Do I Need to Complete My DOT Number Filing?
To complete the USDOT Number application and get your DOT Number, you’ll need to have the following information available. If you have questions about any of this information, your Foley compliance consultant can help:
- Company Operation
- Operation Classification
- Cargo Classification
- HazMat Classification (if needed)
- Type of Vehicles Being Operated
- Number of Vehicles
- Interstate/Intrastate Status
- Number of CDL Drivers
- Whether you own or lease your vehicles
Do I Need an Authority to Operate?
Operating Authority describes the type of carrier you are and the kind of work you do. For example, whether you’re hauling commercial goods or moving personal possessions as a moving company.
If you meet any of the following requirements, you must obtain an Authority to Operate:
- You operate as a for-hire carrier
- You transport passengers between states
- You transport federally-regulated commodities between states
There are different Authority to Operate registrations depending on what you carry. Because insurance is dependent on this registration, it’s important to select the correct one. When you work with a Foley compliance consultant to file your DOT number, we’ll also help you select the correct registration for your business.
DOT Operating Authority Registration Types
The FMCSA recognizes many different types of cargo. This includes:
- General freight
- Household goods
- Drive away/towaway
- Building materials
- Motor vehicles
- Machinery, large objects
- Liquids/gases
- Passengers
- Livestock
- Intermodal containers
- Grain, feed, hay
- Coal
- Chemicals
- Refrigerated food
- Farm supplies
- Construction
- Beverages
- Garbage, trash
- Oil field equipment
If you’re a hazardous materials carrier, you’ll find dozens of other classifications to choose from – from flammable gas to radioactive materials and poison. Your Foley compliance consultant can help you determine the correct classification for you if you need help.
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